AMIODARONE-INJECTION, Cordarone (cont.)

USES: This medication is used to treat irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and to maintain a normal heart rate.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein (IV) as directed by your doctor. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Do not exceed the recommended rate of infusion. Infusing amiodarone too fast may result in serious side effects such as severe lowering of the blood pressure. Your dosage and infusion rate may be adjusted depending upon your medical condition and response to therapy. A chemical (DEHP) found in plastic IV tubing may harm young children (male reproductive system effects). Amiodarone can cause this chemical to leach out of the tubing. Therefore, caution is advised when using this drug in children. Special administration guidelines should be followed (e.g., multiple bolus dosing) to minimize exposure to DEHP. Consult the pharmacist for more information.

SIDE EFFECTS: Also see Warning section. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. This drug, when used in combination with simvastatin, may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious condition called rhabdomyolysis). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: severe dizziness, slowed heartbeat, uncontrolled shaking/tremor, unexplained weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, irregular pulse, vision changes (e.g., seeing halos, blurred vision, loss of vision), easy bruising/bleeding, persistent sore throat. This drug may cause skin reactions similar to a serious sunburn. Infrequently with long-term amiodarone treatment, you may develop blue-gray discoloring of the skin, particularly of the face and hands. This effect is not harmful and usually reverses, sometimes incompletely, after the drug is stopped. Avoiding prolonged sun exposure may help to prevent this effect. See also Precautions. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.